"The Genius of the Bog"

[Keith Carver]

Thoreau described the American bittern as "the genius of the bog." Watching this reclusive master of stealth this morning at Weskeag Marsh (South Thomaston, Maine), I agree. It's a large bird when neck is extended, but can blend perfectly into the grasses and reeds. After this one waited patiently in the grasses for twenty minutes, almost perfectly camouflaged, he finally stepped into the light, still partly obscured by the vegetation. It was worth the wait!

1DM3, 500mm, 2X TC, ISO800, f/11, 1/800 sec.

Comments appreciated.

[Robert O'Toole]

I like the pose and the framing is good.

This is an example of how Bokeh really suffers with a 2X, it tends to look busy and here is a good example.

Light is a little harsh.

Robert

[Keith Carver]

Thanks, Robert. Here's a repost with a little less contrast. And the light was harsh, full morning sun.

[Arthur Morris]

You are a genius Keith. I was gonna suggest less contrast and less SAT and voila, my wish is granted. Only wish now is for a bit more room at the top. And, you did have some room below the feet.... Options were switching to the 1.4X or taking one very large step backwards (somebody referred to the latter as human zooming).

[Markus Jais]

I like the 2nd version. very good shot of an elusive bird. I like the habitat shown. A little more room at the top would be great.

Markus

[Linda Robbins]

Very nice pose of an elusive bird in it's habitat. I agree that the repost looks better. Your patience was rewarded!